Quirky
/ˈkwɜrki/
adjectiveB2
Definition
Quirky means having unusual or odd qualities that make a person or thing different from others. These differences are often seen as charming or amusing rather than negative. It is used to describe behaviors, styles, or appearances that are a little strange but in a nice way.
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See It in Action
Having unusual or odd characteristics that are interesting or amusing
- •She has a quirky sense of style with bright colors and funny hats.
- •His quirky laugh makes everyone smile.
- •The café has a quirky decoration with vintage toys and colorful lights.
Showing small strange habits or ways of doing things
- •He’s quirky because he always writes notes in different colors.
- •The dog has a quirky habit of spinning before lying down.
- •Their quirky traditions make the festival special and fun.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "quirky" like "funny" (A2 word), but instead of just making you laugh, it means being a little strange or unusual in a way you like
- ✓Picture a person wearing colorful, mismatched clothes or having a funny habit like talking to plants
- ✓It's the feeling when you meet someone who is not like everyone else, and you find their small odd behaviors interesting and enjoyable
- ✓Sounds like "quirky" → imagine a "quirk" (a small strange thing) that makes someone special and memorable
- ✓Think of cartoon characters like the Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland, who is a little weird but fun and unique
- ✓NOT like "weird" (which can feel scary or bad), "quirky" is more gentle and positive
- ✓NOT like "normal" (usual), quirky means standing out with small, interesting differences
- ✓NOT like "strange" (can be negative), quirky is often playful and lovable
Try Other Words
- •Eccentric: unusual in behavior or style (Use when the strangeness is stronger or more serious)
- •Unusual: not common or normal (Use when you want a simple word without positive or negative feeling)
- •Odd: strange or different (Use when the difference might seem strange but not always positive)
- •Unique: one of a kind (Use when you want to focus on being special rather than strange)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "quirk" (a small strange habit or feature) + "-y" (adjective suffix meaning "having the quality of")
- •Etymology: "quirk" comes from unknown origin, first used in English in the 16th century meaning a sudden twist or peculiarity
- •Historical development: Originally meant a sudden twist or turn, later used to describe unusual habits or features, then became an adjective "quirky" in the 20th century
- •Modern usage: Used to describe people, places, or things that have small, fun, or interesting strange qualities that make them stand out
Reflect & Connect
•What are some quirky habits or features you or your friends have that make you special?
•Can something be too quirky? How do you decide if quirky is good or strange?
Fill in the blanks
1.People often describe her as quirky because she ___ wears bright and different clothes every day.
2.The café’s quirky style ___ it from other places that look very normal.
3.Unlike being weird, quirky is usually seen as ___ and fun.
4.When someone has quirky habits, they often do things ___ most people do.
5.The artist’s quirky paintings ___ unusual shapes and bright colors.
6.You can say someone is quirky if they ___ small strange behaviors that make them unique.
7.The movie’s quirky characters made the story ___ and interesting to watch.